In June 2025, the Phylloxera Outbreak Management Plan (POMP), which is a jointly owned document between Vinehealth Australia and PIRSA, was ratified by the Phylloxera Management Working Group.
The POMP is a document that will guide the response by Vinehealth Australia and PIRSA should phylloxera be found in South Australia.
While the POMP has been updated in case of a phylloxera outbreak, only PIRSA and Vinehealth Australia can access the document. An Industry Manual will now be created to guide VHA and Industry in managing a phylloxera outbreak. It is expected that the manual will be drafted by the end of the year, and feedback will be sought from industry in the drafting process.
Both the POMP and the Industry Manual are living documents, which means they can be reviewed and updated should there be updated research findings on phylloxera or the National Phylloxera Management Protocol is updated.
The POMP update has been a major project for both Vinehealth Australia and PIRSA. It is the culmination of more than 18 months’ work for both organisations, and recognises the effort undertaken by the team at Vinehealth Australia.
While the POMP has been created for phylloxera and the specific lifecycle, quarantine, disinfestation and movements, the governing principles could be applied for other pests and diseases of grapevines.
What does this mean for industry?
Vinehealth Australia will now focus on phylloxera preparedness exercises across South Australia. Vinehealth Australia is planning on holding a phylloxera exercise with industry organisations on 24 September, before commencing with a regional exercise in the Barossa Valley on 28 October.
Preparedness exercises are similar to simulation exercises, except that simulation exercises are governed by a set of rules and regulations, requiring extensive preparation and targeted outcomes. Preparedness exercises are less stringent and governed, with similar outcomes and findings expected.
Details of the events will be distributed to invited attendees soon.
Vinehealth Australia plans to carry out preparedness exercises in other regions in 2026 and beyond. Please contact your regional association if interested in being involved in your local preparedness exercise or contact Vinehealth Australia directly on 8273 0550.